If you aren't looking forward to spending Valentine's Day alone, I think I have found a solution. Why not an Escort? Red-hot, athletic, with a few cosmetic upgrades; who can say no to that? It would be impolite to ask her age, but I'd have to guess around 30 years old, give or take a few. There might be a few signs of wear and tear, and a couple dings and dents, but none of us are perfect either, right?

Sitting in front of a gas station and garage in Oakville, Ontario, Canada, this bright red Escort GT easily caught my attention peeking out from under a blanket of snow. It was looking a little unloved, and didn't have any plates, but there was no indication that it was for sale. I'm going to guess that not many people have photographed a 1980's Escort GT in the past few decades, but I sure got a kick out of seeing it.

Few people will call the first-generation beautiful, but the GT version added a bit of lipstick to an otherwise dull design, and I think that the result is successful. It might be a bit of a stretch, but I actually see some Mustang in the profile, in a shorter, taller, dorkier sort of way. The lower sill extensions, rear spoiler, front chin spoiler, and asymmetrical grille all combine to give a bit more character compared to the base Escort 3-door.

The upgraded engine apparently had around 20 horsepower more than the base engine, and when you're starting with only 68, a bump like that is actually significant. Add to that a 5-speed manual transmission and this GT was one of the first true 'pocket rockets'. Okay, 'pocket firecracker' might be more fitting...

There's a good chance that this gal is still waiting, shivering out in the cold, as she didn't move the two weeks in February that I saw her. Only a few more hours until Valentine's Day; maybe a gallant suitor would be able to make a deal and make both of you happy! Feel free to ask for her location; I don't know for sure if she's available, but I'm feeling romantic and ready to play Cupid!